wiring inlet box to panel

hello, i want to install an inlet box for my generator on the outside of my house,i have everything i need except i dont know what kind of wire to get to go from the inlet box to the elecrical panel inside the basement. i will be using the interlock kit for the gen .it has a 30 amp plug. i need to know what size wire i should use for this.i also need to get a breaker for the panel ,it needs 2 spaces,if anyone has done this setup before please chime in for me

I agree with you, it sounds like you have everything except for your wire and breaker to hook it all up. The inlet box is great for generator installations and provides a good receptacle for your plug. Shown below, it isn't the Interlock brand, but it works just the same.

Since you are dealing with 30 amp wire, and depending if it is a short (no more than 100 ft. length) run, you can use a 10 gauge wire.

This gauge wire is rated for 30 amps, and if it requires an additional load wire, I would recommend using 10-3 NM w/ground if it is being used in conduit or the wire can be installed entirely indoors. Most local codes (and common sense) dictate that if you run the wire to the inlet box and it is outside, you will need to have it in conduit so that it can be protected from the elements along with anyone that is near or at it.

I say use the NM (non-metallic) version instead of the outdoor UF (underground-feed) 10-3 w/ground, since it is going to be in conduit anyway, and the indoor NM version will be protected and easier to run this way. Plus, if you ever had to add or change out the wiring, it is easy to remove and replace. You only have to run conduit with the wires in where it is exposed to the outside of your house.

It is your choice whether you want to useflexible or sturdier PVC conduit. Below are some fittings and the conduit that is more inexpensive to use, the standard PVC type, and it still works great for going into the inlet box.

If your generator requires a double pole (in laymans terms known as a '220V') breaker, simply refer to the inside of your breaker panel in your basement and it will give you the exact brand of panel. Some circuit breakers can and will fit other brands of breakers, but to elminate guess work, look at the panel label first to get the right double-pole 30 amp breaker for your generator.

And last but most certainly not least, if you are ever unsure in these steps or need additional information like your local codes, consulting a certified and licensed local electrican is always the best choice to make.

I hope this has helped you out and please let us know if you have any further information.

Hello, Don't forget the generator transfer switch that is required between your generator and the panel. This is not only a code violation but could be dangerous for the linemen working on the lines. There are cheaper ones to choose but this one is the easiest to in stall. Most of them install just like a sub-panel.

A frequently overlooked and infrequently mentioned alternative to a transfer switch is installing an Interlock Kit in your load center. The kit insures that the main breaker is in the off position before the breaker for the Generator inlet (back-fed breaker) can be put in to the on position. Conversely it insures that the breaker for the Generator inlet is in the off position before the main breaker can be put in the on position.

I recommend only using a kit manufactured by the same company as your load center. Some examples: